Day 1: Arrive in Ouagadougou
Welcome to Burkina Faso! Arrive in Ouagadougou, the capital of the country. Settle into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your own pace. Take a stroll through the city center and visit the Grand Marché to get a feel for the local vibe. Don’t forget to grab some street food like grilled meat skewers. This is also a good time to change money and get accustomed to the local currency.
Day 2: Explore Ouagadougou’s Cultural Side
Start your day by visiting the National Museum of Burkina Faso. It’s a great way to learn about the country’s history and diversity. In the afternoon, head to the Village Artisanal de Ouagadougou. Here, you can meet local artisans and see traditional crafts like weaving, pottery, and bronze casting.
If you still have energy, end the day with a stop at the Bangr Weogo Park. This is a peaceful urban park perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic.
Day 3: Day Trip to Laongo Sculpture Park
Today, take a day trip to the Laongo Sculpture Park, a short drive from Ouagadougou. The open-air park is filled with stone carvings from artists all over Africa. Spend the morning exploring the sculptures and the surrounding scenic landscape.
Head back to Ouagadougou in the evening and enjoy some downtime or visit a local restaurant to try a traditional Burkinabé meal like “riz gras”.
Day 4: Travel to Bobo-Dioulasso
Catch a bus or drive to Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso’s second-largest city. The trip will take up most of the day, so once you arrive, take it easy. Check into your hotel and take a short walk around the neighborhood. If you’re feeling up to it, explore the central market or check out one of the cafés for local coffee or tea.
Day 5: Bobo-Dioulasso Culture and History
Spend today discovering the cultural heart of Bobo-Dioulasso. Start with a visit to the Grand Mosque, a stunning mudbrick building that dates back to the 19th century. Then, visit the Bobo-Dioulasso Museum to learn more about the region’s heritage.
In the afternoon, wander through Kibidwé, one of the oldest districts of the city, where you can meet locals and see traditional village life right in the city.
Day 6: Karfiguéla Waterfalls and Domes of Fabédougou
It’s time for some nature! Take a day trip to the Karfiguéla Waterfalls just outside of Bobo-Dioulasso. This spot is perfect for a refreshing swim and a picnic. Afterward, visit the nearby Domes of Fabédougou. These natural rock formations are fun to explore and offer amazing photo opportunities.
Return to Bobo-Dioulasso for a relaxed evening.
Day 7: Rural Immersion in Banfora
Travel to Banfora, a small town surrounded by sugar cane fields and beautiful landscapes. Spend the day exploring the local countryside. Visit Lake Tengréla, where you might see hippos, especially in the early morning or late evening. Be sure to also visit the sugar cane plantations to see how the locals work the land.
Day 8: Gaoua and The Lobi People
Today, head south to Gaoua, the capital of the Lobi region. The Lobi people are known for their strong cultural traditions, and this region is one of the less touristy parts of Burkina Faso. Visit the Poni Museum to learn about Lobi culture and then take a guided tour through a traditional Lobi compound.
Spend the night in Gaoua as you immerse yourself in an even slower pace of life.
Day 9: Back to the Capital – Ouagadougou
Today, make your way back to Ouagadougou. The journey will take most of the day, so this is a great chance to catch up on some rest, read a book, or chat with fellow travelers on the bus. When you arrive in Ouagadougou, treat yourself to a relaxing dinner.
Day 10: Last Day in Ouagadougou
On your final day, spend time walking around Ouagadougou one last time. You can revisit your favorite spots or check out some more local markets to pick up souvenirs for home. If you didn’t make it to the Music Museum earlier in your trip, now is a good time to visit. In the evening, catch a live traditional music performance if you can. It’s a great way to end your time in Burkina Faso.
Pack up and get ready for your departure tomorrow.
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